Soon, from April 28th to May 3rd, we will celebrate the Ludi Florae in honor of the Godess Flora.

Flora was a goddess of flowers and the festival generally begins to bloom in the spring.Romans celebrated Floralia with theatrical presentations entertainment, including mimes, naked actresses, and prostitutes. After the theatrical performances, the celebration continued in the Circus Maximus with games. Prostitutes participated as well by mocking games (gladiators fights) in the circus. Animals were also set free and beans scattered to ensure fertility. The celebration in honor of Flora included floral wreaths worn in the hair.

The Ludi Florae had a licentious and pleasure-seeking atmosphere and were plebeian in nature.

As Plebeian Aedile, it is my responsibility and honor to organize and present you the Ludi Florae. This year, there will be no poetry contest since not all Roman citizens have sufficient knowledge of English. The Ludi will be celebrated through a photo contest open to all.

Contest rules:The photography must relate to any of the following themes: Flora, rebirth, spring, flowers, vegetables, theater, dance, mime and of course, must be related to Rome and the Roman Republic.Since we are also celebrating today, the 23rd of April, the Vinalia, I would like to add another theme to this contest: wine!

Each contestant may submit up to 2 pictures.

All submissions must be received by the 3rd of May midnight. The winners shall be announced on the 4th.

I will be the only judge of the contest.

Prize:The winner will receive an authentic and unidentified roman coin probably without any value but a sentimental one. A real copper coin used by our ancestors! If I have time, I will investigate and hopefully find which kind of coin it is... Please see below.

I didn’t check yet but I think that, as Plebeian Aedile, I’m able to transfer denarii. If so, the 3 first places will be awarded with denarii.First place: 90 denarii Second place: 60 denariiThird place: 30 denarii

Thank a lot for your participation and may Flora inspire you! We look forward to seeing your photographs!